§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the terms of reference are of the working group chaired by the Department of Education to consider future provision for the needs of young people with moderate learning difficulties; and if he will place a copy of them in the Library. [152141]
§ Jane KennedyThe Department of Education does not chair a group to consider future provision for the needs of young people specifically with moderate learning difficulties. It does, however, chair an Inter Departmental Working Group (IDG) that is looking at the Transition of young people with statements of special educational needs to adult life.
The remit of the IDG is:
To consider gaps in the process of transition from school (mainstream and special) for children with Statements of Special Educational Needs;To address these gaps by considering needs and best practice in the area; andTo formulate proposals for additional resources in relation to the transitions planning process through to post-school provision in employment, further education and training and day care.A copy of the above has been placed in the Library.
§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland which Northern Ireland Departments are represented on the working group chaired by the Department of Education to consider provision for the future needs of young people with moderate learning difficulties; how many times the working group has met; and from whom the group has taken evidence. [152142]
§ Jane KennedyThe Department of Education does not chair a group to consider future provision for the needs of young people specifically with moderate learning difficulties. It does, however, chair an inter-departmental working group (IDG) that is looking at the transition of young people with statements of special educational needs to adult life.
1055WThe IDG on transitions consists of representatives from the Departments of Education, Employment and Learning, and Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and at one meeting representatives from the Social Security Agency were co-opted for advice. The IDG has met on seven occasions and has taken advice from a range of interests including the Education and Library Boards, the Education and Training Inspectorate, a number of schools and parents groups, a community Health and Social Services Trust, the Carers Forum, a cross section of voluntary groups and an MLA with a special interest in the transitions process.